Things To Do
in Huancavelica
Huancavelica is a high-altitude Andean city set in a bowl-shaped valley surrounded by rugged peaks. The city blends colonial architecture with rich Indigenous traditions, evident in markets, crafts, and music. Its history as a mining and religious site shapes its cultural landmarks and local hospitality.
Visitors are drawn to the surrounding puna landscapes, warm Pachamama rituals, and panoramic views across the valley.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Plaza de Armas, where the vibrant atmosphere and colonial architecture will captivate you. Enjoy a traditional Peruvian breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local specialties like tamales and fresh fruit. After breakfast, explore the nearby Cathedral of Huancavelica, taking in its stunning baroque facade and rich history.
In the afternoon, head to the Museo de Huancavelica to learn about the region's mining history and indigenous cultures. The museum features fascinating artifacts and exhibits that provide insight into the area's past. After your visit, take a leisurely stroll along the streets, stopping at local artisan shops for unique handicrafts.
As evening falls, indulge in a traditional Peruvian dinner at a local restaurant, savoring regional dishes like pachamanca or rocoto relleno. After dinner, enjoy a walk through the illuminated streets of the historic center, soaking in the ambiance. Conclude your evening by sipping on a cup of hot chicha morada at a local café.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before embarking on a trip to the Mantaro River, known for its stunning landscapes. Once you arrive, you can participate in activities like rafting or kayaking, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Andes. The thrill of navigating the river rapids will surely get your adrenaline pumping.
After an exhilarating morning, enjoy a packed lunch by the riverbank, soaking in the natural beauty around you. Spend the afternoon hiking along the river trails, where you can encounter diverse flora and fauna, as well as local wildlife. Don’t forget to take photographs of the scenic vistas and the unique rock formations along the way.
As the sun sets, return to Huancavelica and unwind at a local pizzeria or grill house for dinner. Share stories with fellow travelers over delicious food and perhaps try some local craft beer. Finish your evening with a leisurely walk around the river, reflecting on the day’s adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥪Casual lunch for two | $8-15 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| 🏨1-night in a budget hotel | $25-50 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Spectacular Andean scenery and authentic highland culture
- Rich history, colonial architecture, and welcoming locals
- High altitude can cause acclimatization issues for some travelers
- Limited nightlife and fewer international dining options compared to larger cities
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does this cost?
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Necesito ayuda" - I need help
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
Places to Visit in Huancavelica
Visit one of these nice places.
The heart of the city with colonial buildings, the cathedral, and morning market activity offering vibrant human-scale photography.
Historic streets with traditional balconies, cobblestones, and theatre-like lighting at dawn and dusk.
Ridge viewpoints outside the city provide sweeping views of the Andean valley and distant peaks.
Smaller churches and quiet plazas offer intimate architectural details and local life scenes.
Food in Huancavelica
Huancavelica Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A robust stew featuring olluco root with meat, herbs, and corn, often served with soft maize and cold-weather sides.
Must-Try!
Roasted guinea pig served with potatoes and seasonal vegetables, a traditional highland dish you may encounter in local homes and restaurants.
Quinoa soup enriched with vegetables and herbs, a comforting starter or light main in cooler weather.
Beef broth with tender meat and mote (large corn), a filling option common in evening meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market offering fresh produce, meats, grains, and prepared foods; a great place to observe local eating habits and sample street-ready bites.
Casual stands offering maize-based snacks, roasted meats, and seasonal soups; ideal for a quick, inexpensive taste of daily life.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite greeting—often a handshake or a warm nod—is customary. Dress modestly in religious sites and respect local norms, especially in rural communities.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly in traditional settings or private homes.
Be patient in public queues and social interactions; small talk about family and regional culture is common and welcomed.
Safety
Tipping in Huancavelica
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, a small tip (about 5-10%) is appreciated if service is not included. For street vendors and small kiosks, tipping is optional and usually modest.
Cash (Peruvian Soles) remains common in markets and smaller eateries; some urban restaurants accept cards. ATMs are available in the city center; smaller towns may have limited card facilities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and sunny days with cooler nights; carry layers. Snow is unlikely in town, but higher elevations may be partially covered; stay hydrated and protect against strong sun at altitude.
Very cold nights and chilly days; expect strong winds and possible frost. Pack warm clothing, gloves, and a good jacket; many outdoor areas are accessible but require preparation.
Afternoon showers are common; trails can be muddy and slippery. Plan flexible outdoor activities and carry a lightweight rain layer.
Huancavelica at Night
Hiking in Huancavelica
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A relatively short, steep climb to a ridge with sweeping valley views and sunset photography opportunities.
Moderate hike through highland scrub and farmland with panoramic overlooks of the surrounding mountains.
A scenic day hike to a local lagoon (seasonal water levels) with opportunities to observe Andean birds.
Airports
How to reach Huancavelica by plane.
Main international gateway to Peru; all international travel lands here. Domestic connections to regional hubs can get you closer to Huancavelica before overland travel.
A regional airport with flights from some Peruvian cities; networking to Huancavelica typically requires ground travel from Ayacucho to the Huancavelica area.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A significant portion of the population maintains traditional practices and language alongside Spanish; you’ll encounter vibrant rural life and textile traditions.
A mix of mestizo and criollo heritage with strong ties to regional culture and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
By far the most popular sport across Peru, with local matches and informal games common in urban and rural areas.
Common in schools, community centers, and local clubs; often played in the evenings.
Road cycling and mountain biking are popular among visitors and locals for exploring the surrounding highlands.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Huancavelica.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for dishes based on potatoes, olluco, quinoa, legumes, and maize; request vegetable-focused platters or soups, and ask for cheese or eggs to accompany meals if needed.